Our core believes and most important values
Cultivating Seeds of Possibility…
Rooted in a deep belief in the boundless potential of our community, the Indiana Black Expo Fort Wayne Chapter stands as a beacon of opportunity, empowerment, and progress. We are not just a vehicle or voice, but a tapestry woven with the threads of countless dreams, ambitions, and legacies.
Through the pillars of education, empowerment, and elevation, we cultivate the seeds of possibility within every youth and family:
Education:
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to this criticallyntelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- We believe that knowledge is the key to success, and education is the engine that starts the journey. We aim to equip the minds of all generations within our community with formal and informal education in culture, values, and academic paths to success.
Empowerment:
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Maya Angelou
- We believe that the strength that lives within us all, was first planted as a seed that grew into maturity. We aim to plant seeds of encouragement, support, motivation, and resources to our community, which fosters resilience and the confidence needed to overcome challenges while celebrating the mountains that we climb.
Elevation:
“Bless the world with your mind, heal with your heart, lift with your soul, and elevate with your life” Matshona Dhliwayo
- We believe that rising above negativity for the good and betterment of oneself, is best for all. We encourage our community to rise for justice, and rise to the occasions where love and kindness are needed in relationships with their neighbors, friends, and family.
But our work is not confined by programs and events. We are a family, a network of hearts and hands, fueled by a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow. We walk alongside our youth, celebrate their successes, and guide them through challenges. We support our families, providing a hand up and a voice when needed. We are champions, builders, and dreamers, united in our unwavering commitment to progress.
A successful team beats with one heart
BOARD MEMBERS
Patrice Coleman
Keristen Baker
Sandra White
Garry Hamilton
Virginia Richardson
Iric Headley
Mariah Shakoor
Solomon Smith
MEMBERS
Together, let us cultivate a community where every seed of possibility blossoms into a vibrant reality.
INDIANA BLACK EXPO FORT WAYNE CHAPTER
IBE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been a pillar of the African-American community for decades. As a year-round, multifaceted community service organization with 12 chapters, IBE works to create and advance opportunities for families in central Indiana.
IBEFW
- 114 Three Rivers East
- Fort Wayne, IN 46802
- 260-424-2007
- fortwayneblackexpo@gmail.com